Cause 'Maters Matter

The tomato is iconic in these parts. It's also a great example of how mega-farming has altered the qualities that *used* to be important in breeding vegetables and fruits.

Instead of breeding for juiciness and flavor (which often yields a delicate, easily bruised skin), big agriculture breeds for thick skin and hardy flesh, so that 'maters can ship internationally.

Us? We don't need those faraway 'maters. We're perfectly fine with the beautiful heirloom varieties being grown in our own backyards and at South Carolina organic and near-organic farms.

What better excuse to get together and party down, than to celebrate the TOMATO, champion of the home garden?

What is Slow Food Columbia?The Columbia, SC chapter of the international non-profit organization, Slow Food, whose mission is to support "Good, Clean and Fair" foodways in our local communities.

What is Sustainable Midlands?A coalition of non-profit organizations in the Midlands providing education and facilitating communication among citizens and community leaders about creating communities that have clean air and water and support principles of sustainability.

What is City Roots Farm?The 2.8-acre urban farm, located next to Owens Field, produces sustainably grown productslike farmed tilapia, microgreens and heirloom vegetables, while educating the community about the benefits of locally grown food, composting, vermicomposting and other environmentally friendly farming practices.